Picking up those brushes again.

Hi and welcome to the occasional mutterings of Dave Doc, a military modeller and some time gamer. Gaming and model making has given me a real education, History & Geography(obvious really), Artistry, Politics, Economics, Logistics, Project Management -you try building miniature armies without the last 3.

I will use the blog to record my creations & the odd occasion I actually do some gaming.

I have always been inspired by the aesthetic side of gaming. Playing on well constructed terrain using excellently painted units is always a joy.

Tuesday, 18 October 2016

Stand To! Game Report

Last Sunday saw the the "Stand To!" event at the National Railway Museum in Shildon. Sad to say this was very poorly attended by the local wargamers. We did have a number of museum visitors walk by and chat , and a number of children seemed to enjoy themselves looking at the games and trying hats on - so not all bad. Its a pity really as I think its a decent venue. Its modern , light, reasonable catering , free parking, free entry , free tea and coffe while you set up- and you end up surrounded by large trains! Without some significant effort by the organisers to drum up support I dont see it lasting though.

The Sudan game had another run out. This time I had new players from the Miniature Modelling Mayhem facebook group - Roy , James and Steve. Again this was the rescue the General daughter scenario.

The calm before the storm

the relief colum - this time led by 3 Regiments of the Camel Corps

The siege is under way

The 19th Hussars charge in to deal with Fuzzy Wuzzy "marksmen" on the flank

The Imperial mounted troops move off at thier own speed leaving the infantry behind

A caravan of "friendly natives" appear wanting to sell thier wares. The Camel Corps commnader was having nothing of it - with with 1/2 d6 turns half speed if they ended up haggling .. he was in a hurry

However these only riled the townsfolk who rose up in rebellion with a cracking high roll for the number of Mahdists created - (tee hee!) and charged out to the surprise of the mounted gentleman of the Guards Camel Regiment.. - my there is a lot of Fuzzies they commented!

Meanwhile at the town the leading mob of Ansar had breached the Egyptian defenses - time to defend yourselves gentlemen!

A cricket bat and your MCC colours is just what you need!

The Camel Corps managed to see off the mass charge - But there will be much discussion of the sad losses in the Gentlemans Clubs of London! It was a close run thing..

Baggara cavalry took on the Light Camel Regiment - with their swift horses and spears - they certainly bested the inexperienced camel riders - with 3/4 of the Regiment becoming casualties.

Two Egypian companies to the rescue of the Civilians and Engineers..

The Black Watch set off at a forced march speed - watched by the General and the War Correspondants.

It was getting all very messy - but the Bangal lancers had worked a way through on the flank with only a small unit in the way . In the centre a number of large Fuzzy Wuzzy formations had been broken and cleared.

the Black Watch were motoring down the table - taking heat casualties when they had to turn and step back step back from a Fuzzy charge to deliver a "rapid fire volley" on a mob had broken through the Camel Corps (again!) . Another painful short range volley followed by bayonet work - the Highlanders were made of stern stuff - they lost a company to heat and the melee..but saw them off. "Never any doubt lads" ...

Meanwhile the Bengal Lancers had rescued the girl -

Time to head home for tea and medals!

Many thanks to Roy for assistance in setting up and packing away. And Roy, James and Steve for making it a fun day out.

The Black Watch commander James

the gallant hero of the day "Roy" who got the girl and the medal - and the headlines in the papers! I expect the Knighthood will be along soon.

I shall be at Battleground in Stockton at the end of November with the game too.

And just a short note for any members of the AMG forum . Following the decision to focus that forum on 18th only (which had not been communicated directly) it seems i can no longer log on - nor no longer have any wish too - so just saying bye .

36 comments:

What a brilliant set of photographs Dave and can I say, a very entertaining commentary on the battle as it unfolded. Beautiful figures as ever and I really need to get my two intrepid ladies on camels painted up. If they can be half as good as yours it will a job well done!

Brilliant work Dave! What a phenomenal game - all the scale of a grand battle, and in glorious 28mm as well. It looks amazing, even if it's not all there yet. It's going to be barnstorming when it's all there!